Title: Medicinal plants and traditional medicine in Africa.

POPLINE Document Number: 018476

Author(s):

Sofowora A

Source citation:

New York, John Wiley, 1982. 256 p.

Abstract:

200,000 of the world's 300,000 plant species are found in the tropical countries of Africa and are widely used in traditional medical practice. However, until recently, specialists practicing in these countries have not been trained in their use. This dismissal of traditional medical practices was reversed by a decision by the Association of Medical Schools in Africa that training programs for modern doctors should include exposure to medicinal plants and traditional medicine. This monograph was prepared as a text for such training. Directed at pharmacy, medical, science, and agriculture students, it aims to explain the fundamental procedures used in traditional healing methods. The book's 13 chapters cover areas such as the standardization of herbal potions, scientific evidence supporting remedies used in traditional medicine, relationships between traditional medicine and modern drugs, screening plants for bioactive agents, and guidelines for research on medicinal plants for local drug production. Glossaries of both medical and botanical terms are included, and there is a comprehensive bibliography. It is noted that traditional medicine has many advantages. It is accessible, cheaper than modern medicine, widely acceptable to those in developing countries, and a potential source of new drugs. Moreover, the increase in health manpower obtained through integrating the traditional and modern systems of medicine could help provide health coverage for all the world's population.

Keywords:

Africa
Medicine, Traditional
Indigenous Health Services
Health Services
Plants, Medicinal
Teaching Materials
Developing Countries
Medicine
Delivery of Health Care
Health